A 32-year-old accused of murdering a community patroller in Soshanguve, north of Pretoria, was arrested on April 19.

He was found hiding behind a refrigerator.

The man was wanted in connection with a murder case opened at the Soshanguve SAPS.

He was traced and apprehended during a joint intelligence operation by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department’s Tactical Response Unit (JMPD TRU) and Soshanguve SAPS.

According to JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla, officers received credible information about the suspect’s whereabouts.

Fihla said after securing the necessary authorisations and informing local police, the Tactical Response Unit proceeded to a residence in Soshanguve where the suspect was hiding.

Officers searched the premises and found the man concealed behind a refrigerator in the kitchen.

“An unlicensed firearm and one live round of ammunition were also recovered from the suspect,” said Fihla.

Fihla said the weapon has been submitted for ballistic testing to determine if it was used in the fatal shooting of the patroller.

The spokesperson couldn’t confirm if the suspect is linked to the murder of eight community patrollers in Marry Me Informal Settlement.

“Police are still going to profile the accused, and that is when we will tell if he was involved in the Marry Me murders.”

The suspect is currently being detained at Soshanguve SAPS and will appear in court soon to face charges related to murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm.

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JMPD Chief of Police, Commissioner Patrick Jaca urged community members to continue sharing information with authorities to aid investigations.

“This swift and decisive action by our Tactical Response Unit demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the JMPD to combat serious crime and support our colleagues in law enforcement.

“This arrest sends a clear message that we will not rest until our communities are safe and those who are responsible for such crimes are held accountable.”

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